Our Foundation

A voice of advocacy

A not-for-profit with a clear mission, Envision is an integrated community of blind, low-vision and typically-sighted people. Each of us finds real joy and inspiration in the work we do every day, even as we attempt to inspire those we serve. We continue to move forward because we believe that people with vision loss deserve a voice. They deserve an advocate and a champion who sees ability where others see disability. Our Foundation is that voice, and with your help, we can be heard everywhere.

Uniquely positioned to drive our mission

Few other not-for-profits in the country offer the unique multidisciplinary approach that Envision’s mission encompasses. It’s an integrated model of applied research, direct programs, employment, education and more, with each branch of our organization doing its part to provide paths to independence for people who are blind or visually impaired.

Every day, we’re changing lives through:

Meaningful employment opportunities. Since 1930 alone, we’ve provided over four million hours of employment for those who are blind or visually impaired.

Comprehensive, multidisciplinary low-vision rehabilitation. We’re the only organization in the Midwest offering this rehabilitative approach to help clients maximize their visual function.

State-of-the art programs and services. We provide physical and occupational therapy, orientation and mobility training, assistive technology training, Braille instruction, counseling and more in a center-based location, in the community and in the home.

Ultimately, we strive to create hope and inspire confidence. When this is achieved, the people we serve become more self-sufficient and independent. Envision’s programs and services can mean the difference between unemployment and meaningful work; between assisted living and living independently; between dropping out of school and excelling in college; between a sense of isolation and a sense of belonging. That’s what our Foundation is all about: promoting ability over disability. Defeating fear, and replacing with courage and opportunity.

Our signature events

We host several annual programs during the year, but two events are sure to make your social calendar. Golf Fore Vision is our annual golf tournament and Evening with Envision is our annual gala. Both events serve to grow our network of donors and spread the word about how we continue to defy expectations and do more for those who are blind or visually impaired.

A direct impact

When you give to Envision, you can feel good knowing that 100 percent of your donation goes directly to fuel our programs and services. We offer programs and services regardless of a person’s ability to pay. Your generosity enables us to serve thousands of children, teens, adults and seniors who are blind or visually impaired through our Vision Rehabilitation Clinic, Child Development Center, youth and adult programs and more.

We welcome all gifts to support our mission, whether through a monetary or in-kind donation or your equally valuable time and energy. Because of support from people like you:

More children will get a head start on life with our Envision Child Development Center.

We will reduce the 65 percent unemployment rate for people who are blind.

Our Kids’ Club programs will help more children form lasting friendships, build confidence and learn life skills.

More clients will regain their independence through our Vision Rehabilitation Center.

Assistive technology will be available to students with vision loss, helping them succeed in school and later in life.

More medical professionals will learn specialized low vision practices and techniques through Envision Research Institute and Envision University.

Our programs educating the public on vision loss can expand to reach the underserved.

How you benefit from supporting a not-for-profit

Envision is a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit agency. Your gift supports Envision programs and services for the blind and visually impaired and may also offer compelling tax advantages.

Your generous donations have a lasting impact on the individuals we serve. Your gift transforms lives, and we are forever grateful. Find out more about How You Can Help.

There are three easy ways to donate to The Envision Foundation

Have your monthly donation automatically withdrawn from your checking or savings account through the Automatic Bank Draft* program. Please complete the form and mail it to the address as indicated. Once the process is complete, we can begin auto draft upon your request.

Please make all checks payable to The Envision Foundation. If you would like to designate your gift, please note this on your check.